Ukraine's Seven-Week Incursion: Civilian Toll and Disputed Territories

At least 56 civilians have died and 266 injured during Ukraine's incursion into Russia's Kursk region, reports the Russian Foreign Ministry. Kyiv and Russian forces dispute figures and territories controlled, with Kyiv's stated objective to prevent Russian incursions. Both sides deny targeting civilians and making propaganda claims.

At least 56 civilians have been killed and 266 wounded during Ukraine's seven-week-old incursion into Russia's western Kursk region, the Russian Foreign Ministry said on Monday.

Kyiv began the cross-border attack on Aug. 6, more than two years after Moscow sent tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine. Ukrainian forces remain active in the Kursk region. Previously, the ministry put the death toll at 31 to Sept. 5, with the new toll covering up to Sept. 20.

It stated that 131,000 civilians left the most dangerous areas but accused Ukrainian forces of holding civilians against their will, including up to 120 in Sudzha. Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesman Heorhiy Tykhyi refuted these claims, citing compliance with international humanitarian law. Reuters couldn't verify battlefield reports.

Both sides deny targeting civilians and making false propaganda claims. The Kremlin sees Ukraine's invitation to the UN and ICRC to visit Kursk as 'provocative' and expects them not to accept. Kyiv asserts its incursion aims to prevent Russian attacks. Ukrainian President Zelenskiy claims control over 100 settlements, while Russia disputes this and asserts some areas have been retaken.

(With inputs from agencies.)